Wishing Kokoros
Mirai Kurosaki
Chapter 9
A/N: ^_^
~*~*~*~
"Byakko, how much longer do you think it will take us?" Tsuzuki asked, trying to speak louder due to the harsh winds hurling through the sky.
A small growl came from the large Shikigami. "We should be there in less than five minutes."
Tsuzuki nodded and concentrated on what was ahead. The moon shone brightly and looked as if it sat upon the tip of a tower. It appeared rather old, yet polished slightly to conceal its old age.
"Is that it?"
"Yes."
The castle-like palace seemed to be a deserted area, with no homes circling close by. Instead, the ocean roared close by, spraying light sprinkles of mists into the area. Vast green lands flourished the ground, including tall evergreen trees.
Byakko flew downward, stopping about a hundred yards from the palace. He allowed Tsuzuki to leap off and both crouched among the bushes. Sniffing the air, Byakko growled in the back of his throat.
"Why did you drop me off here? I thought we wanted to go inside." Tsuzuki pointed at the building.
Byakko transformed into his human form and peered through the branches and leaves, careful not to make too much noise. He whispered, "They know of our arrival. I can smell someone outside, waiting for us to come."
"How do we get in?" asked Tsuzuki, becoming irritated that Hisoka may be injured.
Byakko placed a hand to his chin and thought. "The only thing I can come up with is a diversion. While I distract the guard you run through the back."
Tsuzuki nodded and crawled around the bushes, heading towards the back. He paused when he was at least twenty feet away form his Shikigami. Byakko gave thumbs up and walked out from the bushes, taking great notice on his surroundings.
Almost immediately, an enormous beast that appeared to look like Byakko in his true form despite the black coat it possessed. Its ears pressed back to his head and he let out a threatening growl.
At this point, Byakko stepped forward and grew to an equal size of the beast, positioning himself in the same pose. Both stared into each other's piercing eyes until that black beast made the first move. With a roar, the black beast sent an attack, causing Byakko to leap backward.
With quick speed, Tsuzuki raced to the back. He flew up and landed on upon the ledge of one of the smaller towers. He kneeled down and stared down at the fierce battle between Byakko and the guard. He sighed and searched for an opening.
"There must be someway in..."
Tsuzuki floated down slightly and noticed an unlocked window. A slight twisting feeling in his gut caused him to have second doubts. In either case, the thought of Hisoka caused him to open the window and bounded into what appeared to be a dungeon.
"That's strange. Miyuki would never leave a window unlocked like that. Perhaps..."
"Psst!"
Tsuzuki froze. Spinning around, he took out a fuda, preparing for an attack. A shadow slithered across the room and squirmed.
"Who's there?" he asked.
The same voice spoke again, but with more confidence. "Over here! In front of you! Keeping walking."
Tsuzuki placed down his defense pose since he felt no threat form the voice. He headed forward, taking small steps until he heard a clanking sound. Squinting his amethyst eyes, he noticed a form. A boy!
"Who are you?"
A boy was chained to the wall, ragged clothing covered him, and his blue eyes were slightly hidden amongst his sapphire hair. "My name is Hitaru Oatsutai."
He seems so young. Tsuzuki placed his fuda safely away in his inside jacket and knelt beside the frail form.
"What are you doing here Hitaru? Are you a prisoner?"
Hitaru sighed deeply and tugged on his chains in anger. "I am to participate in the Ceremony for my life. I am a slave for Miyuki. Only a few are slaves. Some are entertainment, some are sacrifices, and some are prisoners."
"What's the Ceremony?"
Looking into Tsuzuki's gently eyes, Hitaru said, "It is held once every week or so. Usually for a punishment, Miyuki will place a slave in the ring and he will have to fight for his life against his opponent to live."
Tsuzuki raised an eyebrow. "So if you win, you'll be set free?"
"It's better to die," Hitaru pointed out. "If you win, you will compete in the next tournament until you die. But if you lose, you are either killed. Then, a new slave will enter and will battle someone who Miyuki chooses himself."
Tsuzuki reached out and gently pulled back a few strands of hair form the boy's eyes. "How awful. Here, let me help you get free."
Hitaru smiled but quickly frowned. "The guards are on the way to get me. There is no time for you to try to rescue me. I need to know, are you the one named Asato Tsuzuki?"
"Yes."
Hitaru gave a gasp of relief. "Tenkei was right. Listen, I believe you search for the one named Kurosaki Hisoka."
"Yes!" exclaimed Tsuzuki. "Where is he? Is he hurt?"
"There's no time for details. He is waiting down at the throne room waiting by Miyuki's side for the Ceremony to begin. You may follow where the guards take me and there you'll find him. But I caution you, do not allow yourself to be caught under any circumstances. If you want to rescue Hisoka-san you cannot be seen. There are strict orders for your execution."
Tsuzuki frowned at the helpless sight of the boy. Despite the fact the boy aided him to find Hisoka, he knew there was no hope in rescuing the boy. He nodded and gave his best charming smile.
"Why do you give in so easily?"
Hitaru sighed in defeat. "I have no reason to love any more..."
A soft touch from Tsuzuki caused Hitaru to look up. Tsuzuki wiped off a tear that he hadn't realized had gathered in the corner of his eye. Tsuzuki softly said, "There is always something to live for. Your loved one..."
"My what?"
Tsuzuki chuckled. "We all have some sort of loved one. Even if we deny it...And if not...then live for yourself. But I'm sure you have a loved one, ne?"
Hitaru gave a slight blush.
Seeing the shy look from the boy, Tsuzuki decided to change the subject. "Thank you. I am so sorry that I cannot repay you."
"They're here."
Tsuzuki nodded and flew into a corner, making no movement in the darkness. Three large guards entered the room, accompanied by a few snakes, and headed towards Hitaru.
"It's time, you little slut," sneered one of the guards that had a large cobra slithering on his shoulders. "Take him."
The other two freed Hitaru of his bonds. Tsuzuki watched in awe, as the boy gave no sign of struggling. One of the guards held him by his right, while the other by his left. The guard who had previously spoken led them out of the room, the snakes following behind, watching Hitaru's actions.
Tsuzuki appeared form the shadows and ran after Hitaru, careful not to be seen.
~*~*~*~
Hisoka sat in the throne beside Miyuki with Yume sitting by his side, giving deathly growls at any of the snakes or guards who dared to give Hisoka dirty looks. When they had entered, Tenkei was violently snatched and was dragged back to where all the captives were set off to one side of the room, which had grown ten times its original size.
The slave has arrived.
Hitaru was dragged inside and harshly throne before the steps in front of Miyuki and Hisoka. Yeiko appeared beside Miyuki and said, "He is our next fighter, Miyuki."
Miyuki gave an evil smile and threw the boy a katana. "Here is your weapon, boy. I assume you know the rules."
"Yes, master." Hitaru sat up and took hold of his weapon. A sorrowful look remained within his eyes.
From the corner of his eye, Hisoka noticed Tenkei shaking with fear for his friend. Trying to break free, Tenkei fought against the guards but was kept in his spot.
"You're a monster, Miyuki. Let the boy go," Hisoka said quietly.
Apparently, Miyuki ignored Hisoka's command and stood up, demanding silence.
There is nothing left for you to do, Hisoka.
"Hitaru Oatsutai will be competing for his life. Already I have chosen his opponent."
The crowds of guards, snakes, and captives grew into an outrage of excitement, screaming out names and shoving at one another.
"Why are they so excited about this boy dying?" asked Hisoka with pure disgust.
Keeping his stare straight ahead at Hitaru, Yume spoke softly to Hisoka's mind. This is the only thing worth living for now. They have no future besides the tournaments held.
Hisoka frowned and looked at Miyuki who had begun speaking once more.
"His opponent will be..."
He paused, teasing the wild crowds. All held their breath, waiting for Miyuki to continue his announcement that will throw another outrage.
"Tenkei."
All froze with disbelief. All besides the captives cheered and hissed with pure delight at the wise decision made by their master. Hisoka's head spun around immediately to look for Tenkei. A large guard had seized him harshly by his throat and threw him into the middle of the room, where Hitaru stood waiting. Hisoka shot up form his seat and glared at Miyuki.
"What are you doing!"
A dismissive hand was waved at Hisoka from Miyuki. He sat himself down and smiled devilishly. "I'm entertaining my captives. What else?"
While Hisoka continued to argue with Miyuki, Yeiko had thrown down a katana for Tenkei as well. He stepped down and formed a large circle beam in his hands and threw it into the middle of the room. A sharp light erupted form the surface and a large barrier was created around Tenkei and Hitaru, creating the ring for the match.
Sit down, Hisoka! Don't try to fight it...Yeiko has already placed up the ring. The only way it will be demolished is if one of the competitors dies.
"No! I won't let him do that!" Hisoka was enraged but obeyed, knowing that they were helpless.
"Let the tournament begin...Now!" announced Miyuki.
Tenkei was still sitting upon the surface, denying the fact that he was the opponent. He stared into Hitaru's ocean blue eyes, and gave a small smile. Those same eyes that were so merry and full of hope when they engaged in their favorite games. Now those eyes were full of depression and lost.
"What are you doing, Tenkei? Stand up and fight honorably," said Hitaru, with a harsh tone.
Strands of caramel shook in protest. "I won't fight you, Hitaru-san. We don't need to. You are my best friend. I care about you. I do not want to hurt you..."
Hitaru seemed to have no effect on the words spilling from Tenkei's bruised lips. He raised his katana higher and said, "If you will not make the first move. Then, I will."
"Hitaru..."
With a cry, Hitaru hurled his katana at Tenkei with great speed. Grunting, Tenkei leapt out of the way only to gain a slight scratch. He grabbed his katana that lied close by him and bounded from another attack.
"Hitaru! Stop!"
Another slash and another block. The crowd grew wild. Some screamed in concern for the two boys while others for their own enjoyment.
Hisoka's eyes still remained wide along with Yume, as they both watched in horror.
Tenkei drew the katana out before him and clashed both of their weapons together. Hitaru growled and tried to press more pressure against the weapon but Tenkei was just as equal.
"Hitaru-san! Please stop!"
"Fight me!"
Both sprung backward, breathing deeply for oxygen. However, built more strongly than Tenkei was, Hitaru was easily back with another attack launched straight at Tenkei.
The boy cried out and slightly flipped to the side, but the katana had pierced his right arm deeply. Scarlet liquid oozed out, staining the white fabric on Tenkei's ragged clothing. He gave a hiss from the pain electrifying his arm and raced away from another blow.
"I said fight me!" yelled Hitaru, making another deadly blow to Tenkei's left thigh.
Yume gave a roar of protest and glided down to the barrier, angrily clawing at it. Nobody dared to stop him, for the furious look on his eyes. Besides, Miyuki knew that it was impossible, even for someone with Yume's strength, to penetrate it.
Again, Tenkei pleaded for Hitaru to stop as both regained their fighting stance on opposite ends.
~*~*~*~
Tsuzuki hid amongst the captive slaves, borrowing a cloak from someone he had asked who kindly gave it to him. He had seen the small boy being thrown but the guard forcefully and the announcement made by Miyuki. That was when he had noticed Hisoka. He could only see him because he had stood up with such anger screaming at Miyuki. He had also seen a great beast with deathly sharp wings roar and attack at the barrier.
Now, he waited for his move to attack. During the tournament would be a deathly move and before wasn't even an option. He still had time to plot out a thought. But he needed Watari and Tatsumi there with him. His Shikigami would obviously cause a harm to the poor slaves.
"The boy is loosing."
Tsuzuki turned to see another cloaked figure beside him, frowning. "Byakko, why isn't the boy fighting?"
Byakko said, "They are true friends. But it seems that the other one understands the punishment. The boy, however, doesn't care if he dies as long as Hitaru is not hurt. But he is trying to convince Hitaru to stop before it's too late."
"Too late for what?"
"Before death kills them both. They will go insane in that barrier. One must die in order for it to fade away."
A riot amongst the crowds caused both of them to take notice of the scenery. Hisoka was standing with fear and Miyuki was leaning forward in his chair with great excitement. He looked where the battle was held and gasped quietly.
The smaller of the boy was clutching his bloody arm, the katana lying on his equally bloody legs. The other stood about ten feet away form him, about to strike the last blow. Everyone was murmuring amongst himself or herself. No one dared to blink.
"This is inhuman."
~*~*~*~
Tenkei gazed helplessly into Hitaru's crazed eyes. Such lust for death began filling them just as quickly as the tears in the corner of Tenkei's eyes.
"Please...Hitaru-san..."
Hitaru raised his katana and took one step back, ready. It was then that Tenkei realized that Hitaru was never there. His dear friend's soul had withered in despair and was now nothing but a shell. His soul was locked away, refusing to come out.
"Prepare to die, Tenkei."
Hitaru gave one last battle cry and raced at the frail Tenkei.
Yume roared with much force and continued to attack the barrier. Hisoka was frozen with shock and Miyuki with interest. Everyone one else was silent.
Tenkei released his hold on his arm and slowly reached for his katana. "A favor between friends..."
Hitaru's weapon flew down right at Tenkei.
With a split second Tenkei allowed the tears to leek and cried, "Hitaru-san!" and thrust his katana forward.
"Oh my God," gasped Hisoka.
No...
Hitaru was now haunching over Tenkei's body with Tenkei's weapon embedded right through his abdomen.
Everyone stayed motionless while the barrier faded into oblivion slowly. The guards and reptiles remained at their places as well as the captives. Only two cloaked figures had slightly moved around, but nobody cared to notice.
Hisoka shook violently but managed to stumble down the stairs and dashed right to where Tenkei sat. The boy had pulled out his katana and was now cradling Hitaru's body in his lap, tenderly.
"Hitaru-san..." Tears were angrily streaming down, refusing to stop. He caressed the cerulean locks of hair and whimpered.
Hitaru's eyes slightly adjusted to stare where Tenkei's face loomed over him. "Te-Ten...Tenkei...san. Th-tha...thank...yo-you. I am so so-sorry for hurting you." Crystal tears formed within his blue eyes as well.
"Shhh. I-it's okay. I will always rememb-remember you," whispered Tenkei, still caressing Hitaru's hair.
"I-I...will alw-always...l-love...you, Tenke-Tenkei-san. I ju-just...wish...t-th-that we c-could ha-ve grown u-up tog-together...Like w-we alwa-always wished." Hitaru gave a heave for breath and spoke again. "D-do...me a favor...wi-will you?"
"Anything..."
Hitaru gave a tiny smile. "Kil-ll Miyu-Miyuki for me. And you..." His eyes turned to a kneeling Hisoka, who had arrived a little while ago.
Hisoka continued to shake. "Yes?"
"He...I-is...here. Pl-please tell him...th-thank y-you fo-for giving m-me some-something to be-believe in."
Hisoka did not understand who 'he' was but nodded.
With that, Hitaru raised his hand to caress Tenkei's cheek softly. The boy immediately held Hitaru's cold and pale hand, afraid that it would shatter at any moment.
"My de-dear...fr-friend...lov-loved one is what h-he told m-me-me to beli-eve in. Tha-that I-is you...Ten-Tenkei Kyo...Kyomeito."
Tenkei's eyes widened. "Hitaru-san...What did you say? Kyomeito?"
Hitaru gave a course laugh. "I love...you." Sapphire eyes closed shut and the hand that was placed on Tenkei's cheek went lifeless.
Hisoka placed two fingers on Hitaru's throat. He bowed his head and said, "He's gone."
Refusing to let Yeiko and the guards take Hitaru's body away form him, Tenkei cried his heart out and tightened his hold on his loved one. He let out a piercing scream that had a strong impact on everyone's heart.
"HITARU!!!!!"
~*~*~*~
A/N: ^^; Not sure what to say...I don't really know if Tenkei and Hitaru are lovers. You could think of it as them being lovers or best friends. ^.^; I just had to add this chapter in to have some sort of pause for Tsuzuki to think of something. Besides, I couldn't help but torture poor Tenkei. *huggles him and Hisoka and Tsuzuki*
To Akane-chan: Yup! I am creating my own manga. I have been creating the characters and plot for about three months now. @.@ Still got to do the drawing now. And maybe in months to a year my site will be completely done. ^^;
To Ryukai: Loved your ficcy! So kawaii and sappy! ^_^ *sighs dreamily* a prince and his bodyguard...Oooooh! What a great idea! ^_^
To anyone who cares: When my site is complete I'll be drawing out Wishing Kokoros like a long doujinshi and post it for those of you who prefer visual like writing. *grin* And I promise to those other people that I WILL get to Death of Light! I'm almost done with the next chapter. ^^;
Mirai Kurosaki
Chapter 9
A/N: ^_^
~*~*~*~
"Byakko, how much longer do you think it will take us?" Tsuzuki asked, trying to speak louder due to the harsh winds hurling through the sky.
A small growl came from the large Shikigami. "We should be there in less than five minutes."
Tsuzuki nodded and concentrated on what was ahead. The moon shone brightly and looked as if it sat upon the tip of a tower. It appeared rather old, yet polished slightly to conceal its old age.
"Is that it?"
"Yes."
The castle-like palace seemed to be a deserted area, with no homes circling close by. Instead, the ocean roared close by, spraying light sprinkles of mists into the area. Vast green lands flourished the ground, including tall evergreen trees.
Byakko flew downward, stopping about a hundred yards from the palace. He allowed Tsuzuki to leap off and both crouched among the bushes. Sniffing the air, Byakko growled in the back of his throat.
"Why did you drop me off here? I thought we wanted to go inside." Tsuzuki pointed at the building.
Byakko transformed into his human form and peered through the branches and leaves, careful not to make too much noise. He whispered, "They know of our arrival. I can smell someone outside, waiting for us to come."
"How do we get in?" asked Tsuzuki, becoming irritated that Hisoka may be injured.
Byakko placed a hand to his chin and thought. "The only thing I can come up with is a diversion. While I distract the guard you run through the back."
Tsuzuki nodded and crawled around the bushes, heading towards the back. He paused when he was at least twenty feet away form his Shikigami. Byakko gave thumbs up and walked out from the bushes, taking great notice on his surroundings.
Almost immediately, an enormous beast that appeared to look like Byakko in his true form despite the black coat it possessed. Its ears pressed back to his head and he let out a threatening growl.
At this point, Byakko stepped forward and grew to an equal size of the beast, positioning himself in the same pose. Both stared into each other's piercing eyes until that black beast made the first move. With a roar, the black beast sent an attack, causing Byakko to leap backward.
With quick speed, Tsuzuki raced to the back. He flew up and landed on upon the ledge of one of the smaller towers. He kneeled down and stared down at the fierce battle between Byakko and the guard. He sighed and searched for an opening.
"There must be someway in..."
Tsuzuki floated down slightly and noticed an unlocked window. A slight twisting feeling in his gut caused him to have second doubts. In either case, the thought of Hisoka caused him to open the window and bounded into what appeared to be a dungeon.
"That's strange. Miyuki would never leave a window unlocked like that. Perhaps..."
"Psst!"
Tsuzuki froze. Spinning around, he took out a fuda, preparing for an attack. A shadow slithered across the room and squirmed.
"Who's there?" he asked.
The same voice spoke again, but with more confidence. "Over here! In front of you! Keeping walking."
Tsuzuki placed down his defense pose since he felt no threat form the voice. He headed forward, taking small steps until he heard a clanking sound. Squinting his amethyst eyes, he noticed a form. A boy!
"Who are you?"
A boy was chained to the wall, ragged clothing covered him, and his blue eyes were slightly hidden amongst his sapphire hair. "My name is Hitaru Oatsutai."
He seems so young. Tsuzuki placed his fuda safely away in his inside jacket and knelt beside the frail form.
"What are you doing here Hitaru? Are you a prisoner?"
Hitaru sighed deeply and tugged on his chains in anger. "I am to participate in the Ceremony for my life. I am a slave for Miyuki. Only a few are slaves. Some are entertainment, some are sacrifices, and some are prisoners."
"What's the Ceremony?"
Looking into Tsuzuki's gently eyes, Hitaru said, "It is held once every week or so. Usually for a punishment, Miyuki will place a slave in the ring and he will have to fight for his life against his opponent to live."
Tsuzuki raised an eyebrow. "So if you win, you'll be set free?"
"It's better to die," Hitaru pointed out. "If you win, you will compete in the next tournament until you die. But if you lose, you are either killed. Then, a new slave will enter and will battle someone who Miyuki chooses himself."
Tsuzuki reached out and gently pulled back a few strands of hair form the boy's eyes. "How awful. Here, let me help you get free."
Hitaru smiled but quickly frowned. "The guards are on the way to get me. There is no time for you to try to rescue me. I need to know, are you the one named Asato Tsuzuki?"
"Yes."
Hitaru gave a gasp of relief. "Tenkei was right. Listen, I believe you search for the one named Kurosaki Hisoka."
"Yes!" exclaimed Tsuzuki. "Where is he? Is he hurt?"
"There's no time for details. He is waiting down at the throne room waiting by Miyuki's side for the Ceremony to begin. You may follow where the guards take me and there you'll find him. But I caution you, do not allow yourself to be caught under any circumstances. If you want to rescue Hisoka-san you cannot be seen. There are strict orders for your execution."
Tsuzuki frowned at the helpless sight of the boy. Despite the fact the boy aided him to find Hisoka, he knew there was no hope in rescuing the boy. He nodded and gave his best charming smile.
"Why do you give in so easily?"
Hitaru sighed in defeat. "I have no reason to love any more..."
A soft touch from Tsuzuki caused Hitaru to look up. Tsuzuki wiped off a tear that he hadn't realized had gathered in the corner of his eye. Tsuzuki softly said, "There is always something to live for. Your loved one..."
"My what?"
Tsuzuki chuckled. "We all have some sort of loved one. Even if we deny it...And if not...then live for yourself. But I'm sure you have a loved one, ne?"
Hitaru gave a slight blush.
Seeing the shy look from the boy, Tsuzuki decided to change the subject. "Thank you. I am so sorry that I cannot repay you."
"They're here."
Tsuzuki nodded and flew into a corner, making no movement in the darkness. Three large guards entered the room, accompanied by a few snakes, and headed towards Hitaru.
"It's time, you little slut," sneered one of the guards that had a large cobra slithering on his shoulders. "Take him."
The other two freed Hitaru of his bonds. Tsuzuki watched in awe, as the boy gave no sign of struggling. One of the guards held him by his right, while the other by his left. The guard who had previously spoken led them out of the room, the snakes following behind, watching Hitaru's actions.
Tsuzuki appeared form the shadows and ran after Hitaru, careful not to be seen.
~*~*~*~
Hisoka sat in the throne beside Miyuki with Yume sitting by his side, giving deathly growls at any of the snakes or guards who dared to give Hisoka dirty looks. When they had entered, Tenkei was violently snatched and was dragged back to where all the captives were set off to one side of the room, which had grown ten times its original size.
The slave has arrived.
Hitaru was dragged inside and harshly throne before the steps in front of Miyuki and Hisoka. Yeiko appeared beside Miyuki and said, "He is our next fighter, Miyuki."
Miyuki gave an evil smile and threw the boy a katana. "Here is your weapon, boy. I assume you know the rules."
"Yes, master." Hitaru sat up and took hold of his weapon. A sorrowful look remained within his eyes.
From the corner of his eye, Hisoka noticed Tenkei shaking with fear for his friend. Trying to break free, Tenkei fought against the guards but was kept in his spot.
"You're a monster, Miyuki. Let the boy go," Hisoka said quietly.
Apparently, Miyuki ignored Hisoka's command and stood up, demanding silence.
There is nothing left for you to do, Hisoka.
"Hitaru Oatsutai will be competing for his life. Already I have chosen his opponent."
The crowds of guards, snakes, and captives grew into an outrage of excitement, screaming out names and shoving at one another.
"Why are they so excited about this boy dying?" asked Hisoka with pure disgust.
Keeping his stare straight ahead at Hitaru, Yume spoke softly to Hisoka's mind. This is the only thing worth living for now. They have no future besides the tournaments held.
Hisoka frowned and looked at Miyuki who had begun speaking once more.
"His opponent will be..."
He paused, teasing the wild crowds. All held their breath, waiting for Miyuki to continue his announcement that will throw another outrage.
"Tenkei."
All froze with disbelief. All besides the captives cheered and hissed with pure delight at the wise decision made by their master. Hisoka's head spun around immediately to look for Tenkei. A large guard had seized him harshly by his throat and threw him into the middle of the room, where Hitaru stood waiting. Hisoka shot up form his seat and glared at Miyuki.
"What are you doing!"
A dismissive hand was waved at Hisoka from Miyuki. He sat himself down and smiled devilishly. "I'm entertaining my captives. What else?"
While Hisoka continued to argue with Miyuki, Yeiko had thrown down a katana for Tenkei as well. He stepped down and formed a large circle beam in his hands and threw it into the middle of the room. A sharp light erupted form the surface and a large barrier was created around Tenkei and Hitaru, creating the ring for the match.
Sit down, Hisoka! Don't try to fight it...Yeiko has already placed up the ring. The only way it will be demolished is if one of the competitors dies.
"No! I won't let him do that!" Hisoka was enraged but obeyed, knowing that they were helpless.
"Let the tournament begin...Now!" announced Miyuki.
Tenkei was still sitting upon the surface, denying the fact that he was the opponent. He stared into Hitaru's ocean blue eyes, and gave a small smile. Those same eyes that were so merry and full of hope when they engaged in their favorite games. Now those eyes were full of depression and lost.
"What are you doing, Tenkei? Stand up and fight honorably," said Hitaru, with a harsh tone.
Strands of caramel shook in protest. "I won't fight you, Hitaru-san. We don't need to. You are my best friend. I care about you. I do not want to hurt you..."
Hitaru seemed to have no effect on the words spilling from Tenkei's bruised lips. He raised his katana higher and said, "If you will not make the first move. Then, I will."
"Hitaru..."
With a cry, Hitaru hurled his katana at Tenkei with great speed. Grunting, Tenkei leapt out of the way only to gain a slight scratch. He grabbed his katana that lied close by him and bounded from another attack.
"Hitaru! Stop!"
Another slash and another block. The crowd grew wild. Some screamed in concern for the two boys while others for their own enjoyment.
Hisoka's eyes still remained wide along with Yume, as they both watched in horror.
Tenkei drew the katana out before him and clashed both of their weapons together. Hitaru growled and tried to press more pressure against the weapon but Tenkei was just as equal.
"Hitaru-san! Please stop!"
"Fight me!"
Both sprung backward, breathing deeply for oxygen. However, built more strongly than Tenkei was, Hitaru was easily back with another attack launched straight at Tenkei.
The boy cried out and slightly flipped to the side, but the katana had pierced his right arm deeply. Scarlet liquid oozed out, staining the white fabric on Tenkei's ragged clothing. He gave a hiss from the pain electrifying his arm and raced away from another blow.
"I said fight me!" yelled Hitaru, making another deadly blow to Tenkei's left thigh.
Yume gave a roar of protest and glided down to the barrier, angrily clawing at it. Nobody dared to stop him, for the furious look on his eyes. Besides, Miyuki knew that it was impossible, even for someone with Yume's strength, to penetrate it.
Again, Tenkei pleaded for Hitaru to stop as both regained their fighting stance on opposite ends.
~*~*~*~
Tsuzuki hid amongst the captive slaves, borrowing a cloak from someone he had asked who kindly gave it to him. He had seen the small boy being thrown but the guard forcefully and the announcement made by Miyuki. That was when he had noticed Hisoka. He could only see him because he had stood up with such anger screaming at Miyuki. He had also seen a great beast with deathly sharp wings roar and attack at the barrier.
Now, he waited for his move to attack. During the tournament would be a deathly move and before wasn't even an option. He still had time to plot out a thought. But he needed Watari and Tatsumi there with him. His Shikigami would obviously cause a harm to the poor slaves.
"The boy is loosing."
Tsuzuki turned to see another cloaked figure beside him, frowning. "Byakko, why isn't the boy fighting?"
Byakko said, "They are true friends. But it seems that the other one understands the punishment. The boy, however, doesn't care if he dies as long as Hitaru is not hurt. But he is trying to convince Hitaru to stop before it's too late."
"Too late for what?"
"Before death kills them both. They will go insane in that barrier. One must die in order for it to fade away."
A riot amongst the crowds caused both of them to take notice of the scenery. Hisoka was standing with fear and Miyuki was leaning forward in his chair with great excitement. He looked where the battle was held and gasped quietly.
The smaller of the boy was clutching his bloody arm, the katana lying on his equally bloody legs. The other stood about ten feet away form him, about to strike the last blow. Everyone was murmuring amongst himself or herself. No one dared to blink.
"This is inhuman."
~*~*~*~
Tenkei gazed helplessly into Hitaru's crazed eyes. Such lust for death began filling them just as quickly as the tears in the corner of Tenkei's eyes.
"Please...Hitaru-san..."
Hitaru raised his katana and took one step back, ready. It was then that Tenkei realized that Hitaru was never there. His dear friend's soul had withered in despair and was now nothing but a shell. His soul was locked away, refusing to come out.
"Prepare to die, Tenkei."
Hitaru gave one last battle cry and raced at the frail Tenkei.
Yume roared with much force and continued to attack the barrier. Hisoka was frozen with shock and Miyuki with interest. Everyone one else was silent.
Tenkei released his hold on his arm and slowly reached for his katana. "A favor between friends..."
Hitaru's weapon flew down right at Tenkei.
With a split second Tenkei allowed the tears to leek and cried, "Hitaru-san!" and thrust his katana forward.
"Oh my God," gasped Hisoka.
No...
Hitaru was now haunching over Tenkei's body with Tenkei's weapon embedded right through his abdomen.
Everyone stayed motionless while the barrier faded into oblivion slowly. The guards and reptiles remained at their places as well as the captives. Only two cloaked figures had slightly moved around, but nobody cared to notice.
Hisoka shook violently but managed to stumble down the stairs and dashed right to where Tenkei sat. The boy had pulled out his katana and was now cradling Hitaru's body in his lap, tenderly.
"Hitaru-san..." Tears were angrily streaming down, refusing to stop. He caressed the cerulean locks of hair and whimpered.
Hitaru's eyes slightly adjusted to stare where Tenkei's face loomed over him. "Te-Ten...Tenkei...san. Th-tha...thank...yo-you. I am so so-sorry for hurting you." Crystal tears formed within his blue eyes as well.
"Shhh. I-it's okay. I will always rememb-remember you," whispered Tenkei, still caressing Hitaru's hair.
"I-I...will alw-always...l-love...you, Tenke-Tenkei-san. I ju-just...wish...t-th-that we c-could ha-ve grown u-up tog-together...Like w-we alwa-always wished." Hitaru gave a heave for breath and spoke again. "D-do...me a favor...wi-will you?"
"Anything..."
Hitaru gave a tiny smile. "Kil-ll Miyu-Miyuki for me. And you..." His eyes turned to a kneeling Hisoka, who had arrived a little while ago.
Hisoka continued to shake. "Yes?"
"He...I-is...here. Pl-please tell him...th-thank y-you fo-for giving m-me some-something to be-believe in."
Hisoka did not understand who 'he' was but nodded.
With that, Hitaru raised his hand to caress Tenkei's cheek softly. The boy immediately held Hitaru's cold and pale hand, afraid that it would shatter at any moment.
"My de-dear...fr-friend...lov-loved one is what h-he told m-me-me to beli-eve in. Tha-that I-is you...Ten-Tenkei Kyo...Kyomeito."
Tenkei's eyes widened. "Hitaru-san...What did you say? Kyomeito?"
Hitaru gave a course laugh. "I love...you." Sapphire eyes closed shut and the hand that was placed on Tenkei's cheek went lifeless.
Hisoka placed two fingers on Hitaru's throat. He bowed his head and said, "He's gone."
Refusing to let Yeiko and the guards take Hitaru's body away form him, Tenkei cried his heart out and tightened his hold on his loved one. He let out a piercing scream that had a strong impact on everyone's heart.
"HITARU!!!!!"
~*~*~*~
A/N: ^^; Not sure what to say...I don't really know if Tenkei and Hitaru are lovers. You could think of it as them being lovers or best friends. ^.^; I just had to add this chapter in to have some sort of pause for Tsuzuki to think of something. Besides, I couldn't help but torture poor Tenkei. *huggles him and Hisoka and Tsuzuki*
To Akane-chan: Yup! I am creating my own manga. I have been creating the characters and plot for about three months now. @.@ Still got to do the drawing now. And maybe in months to a year my site will be completely done. ^^;
To Ryukai: Loved your ficcy! So kawaii and sappy! ^_^ *sighs dreamily* a prince and his bodyguard...Oooooh! What a great idea! ^_^
To anyone who cares: When my site is complete I'll be drawing out Wishing Kokoros like a long doujinshi and post it for those of you who prefer visual like writing. *grin* And I promise to those other people that I WILL get to Death of Light! I'm almost done with the next chapter. ^^;